What are .blend files? What is Phobos ransomware? How to open .blend files? How to remove Phobos and try to restore .blend encrypted files?
A new variant of Phobos ransomware virus has been reported to hit unsuspecting victims. The virus uses the .blend extension which is added to the files it encrypts. The files, encrypted by Phobos ransomware are then no longer able to be opened and the crooks who are behind this virus want victims to pay ransom to get their files back. If your computer has been infected by the .blend variant of Phobos ransomware, then we strongly recommend that you read this article thoroughly.
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Threat Summary
Name | .blend Phobos virus |
Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
Short Description | A variant of Phobos ransomware. Aims to encrypt files and hold them hostage until the victim pays ransom to get the data back. |
Symptoms | Files have the .blend file extension and a ransom note file, called Phobos is also dropped on the victim computer. |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .blend Phobos virus. |
Data Recovery Tool | Windows Data Recovery by Stellar Phoenix Notice! This product scans your drive sectors to recover lost files and it may not recover 100% of the encrypted files, but only few of them, depending on the situation and whether or not you have reformatted your drive. |
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Phobos Ransomware – How Did I Get It and What Does It Do?
Phobos ransomware is from the cryptovirus type. Just like it’s predecessor Dharma ransomware, Phobos ransomware aims to use AES encryption and make your important files to no longer be readible.
To slither in your computer, Phobos ransomware may come in different forms. One scenario is if you get infected as a result of a browser redirection that is caused by this variant of Phobos. These types of virus redirects are likely caused by an adware, a PUP or another redirection software. Another scenario is for the virus file of Phobos to come on your computer as a result of a malicious e-mail attachment. These attachments often pretend to be invoices, documents and other forms of seemingly legitimate files. And yet, you can also download the virus infection file of the Phbos .blend ransomware by visiting multiple different sites online, that are compromised and offer it as a fake crack, patch, keygen and basically any other free download that you are looking for.
Either way, once Phobos .blend virus is on your computer, you may immediately notice it. This is because the virus sets the following ransom note on your computer:
Text from image:
All your files are encrypted
Hello World
Data on this PC turned into a useless binary code
To return to normal, please contact us by this e-mail: OttoZimmerman@protonmail.ch
Set topic of your message to ‘Encryption ID:6BBC6934’
Interesting Facts:
• 1. Over time, the cost increases, do not waste your time
• 2. Only we can help you, for sure, no one else.
• 3. BE CAREFUL !!! If you still try to find other solutions to the problem, make a backup copy of the files you want to experiment on, and play with them. Otherwise, they can be permanently damaged
• 4. Any services that offer you help or just take money from you and disappear, or they will be intermediaries between us, with inflated value. Since the antidote is only among the creators of the virus
To encrypt the files on your computer, Phobos ransomware may begin to scan for all the files, documents and other data outside of the general Windows directories. Once it detects them, they assume the following appearance:
After it detects your files, Phobos ransomware may use the Advanced Encryption Standard encryption algorithm, which aims to render your files to be ineffective. The main idea of those files is to become no longer usable, until you have the decryption key that is generated and is currently in the hands of the crooks. It is not advisable to pay the ransom, because for one, you cannot trust the cyber-criminals, but also paying the ransom does not mean that you will get your files back.
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Remove Phobos Ransomware and Try to Restore .blend Files
In order for you to get rid of Phobos ransomware from your computer, we strongly recommend that you follow the removal steps below. They are made to help you to remove this virus from your computer by isolating it and deleting the objects it creates. For maximum effectiveness and faster removal, we do recommend that you save yourself some time and skip to downloading a professional anti-malware software, which will do all of those steps and remove .blend Phobos virus automatically from your computer. Such software will automatically scan your computer for all of the .blend objects and get rid of the virus automatically, without further damaging your files.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for .blend Phobos virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .blend Phobos virus and related malware from Windows
Here is a method in few easy steps that should be able to uninstall most programs. No matter if you are using Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista or XP, those steps will get the job done. Dragging the program or its folder to the recycle bin can be a very bad decision. If you do that, bits and pieces of the program are left behind, and that can lead to unstable work of your PC, errors with the file type associations and other unpleasant activities. The proper way to get a program off your computer is to Uninstall it. To do that:
![delete ransomware from windows step 1](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/1-step-remove-virus-sensorstechforum-com.jpg)
![delete ransomware from windows step 2](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Run-Remove-Uninstal-pop-up-adware-hijacker-virus-sensorstechforum-2.jpg)
![delete ransomware from windows step 3](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Run-Remove-Uninstal-pop-up-adware-hijacker-virus-sensorstechforum-3.jpg)
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by .blend Phobos virus on your computer.
The usually targeted registries of Windows machines are the following:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
You can access them by opening the Windows registry editor and deleting any values, created by .blend Phobos virus there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
![delete ransomware virus registries step 1](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/5-step-remove-a-virus-sensorstechforum-com.jpg)
![delete ransomware virus registries step 2](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/6-step-remove-virus-sensorstechforum-com.jpg)
![delete ransomware virus registries step 3](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/7-step-remove-virus-sensorstechforum-com.jpg)
Before starting "Step 4", please boot back into Normal mode, in case you are currently in Safe Mode.
This will enable you to install and use SpyHunter 5 successfully.
Step 4: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove .blend Phobos virus
![remove ransomware in safe mode step 1](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/1-step-remove-virus-sensorstechforum-com.jpg)
![remove ransomware in safe mode step 2](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/2-step-remove-virus-sensorstechforum-com.jpg)
![remove ransomware in safe mode step 3](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/3-step-remove-virus-sensorstechforum-com.jpg)
![remove ransomware in safe mode step 4](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/4-step-remove-virus-sensorstechforum-com.jpg)
![remove ransomware in safe mode step 5](https://cdn.sensorstechforum.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/windows-safe-mode-running.jpg)
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .blend Phobos virus.
Method 1: Use STOP Decrypter by Emsisoft.
Not all variants of this ransomware can be decrypted for free, but we have added the decryptor used by researchers that is often updated with the variants which become eventually decrypted. You can try and decrypt your files using the instructions below, but if they do not work, then unfortunately your variant of the ransomware virus is not decryptable.
Follow the instructions below to use the Emsisoft decrypter and decrypt your files for free. You can download the Emsisoft decryption tool linked here and then follow the steps provided below:
1 Right-click on the decrypter and click on Run as Administrator as shown below:
2. Agree with the license terms:
3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:
4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.
Note: Credit for the decryptor goes to Emsisoft researchers who have made the breakthrough with this virus.
Method 2: Use data recovery software
Ransomware infections and .blend Phobos virus aim to encrypt your files using an encryption algorithm which may be very difficult to decrypt. This is why we have suggested a data recovery method that may help you go around direct decryption and try to restore your files. Bear in mind that this method may not be 100% effective but may also help you a little or a lot in different situations.
Simply click on the link and on the website menus on the top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
.blend Phobos virus-FAQ
What is .blend Phobos virus Ransomware?
.blend Phobos virus is a ransomware infection - the malicious software that enters your computer silently and blocks either access to the computer itself or encrypt your files.
Many ransomware viruses use sophisticated encryption algorithms to make your files inaccessible. The goal of ransomware infections is to demand that you pay a ransom payment to get access to your files back.
What Does .blend Phobos virus Ransomware Do?
Ransomware in general is a malicious software that is designed to block access to your computer or files until a ransom is paid.
Ransomware viruses can also damage your system, corrupt data and delete files, resulting in the permanent loss of important files.
How Does .blend Phobos virus Infect?
Via several ways..blend Phobos virus Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing emails, containing virus attachment. This attachment is usually masked as an important document, like an invoice, bank document or even a plane ticket and it looks very convincing to users.
Another way you may become a victim of .blend Phobos virus is if you download a fake installer, crack or patch from a low reputation website or if you click on a virus link. Many users report getting a ransomware infection by downloading torrents.
How to Open ..blend Phobos virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..blend Phobos virus files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted using a specific decryption key for the particular algorithm.
What to Do If a Decryptor Does Not Work?
Do not panic, and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your ..blend Phobos virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..blend Phobos virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..blend Phobos virus files.
These methods are in no way 100% guaranteed that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.
How To Get Rid of .blend Phobos virus Virus?
The safest way and the most efficient one for the removal of this ransomware infection is the use a professional anti-malware program.
It will scan for and locate .blend Phobos virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..blend Phobos virus files.
Can I Report Ransomware to Authorities?
In case your computer got infected with a ransomware infection, you can report it to the local Police departments. It can help authorities worldwide track and determine the perpetrators behind the virus that has infected your computer.
Below, we have prepared a list with government websites, where you can file a report in case you are a victim of a cybercrime:
Cyber-security authorities, responsible for handling ransomware attack reports in different regions all over the world:
Germany - Offizielles Portal der deutschen Polizei
United States - IC3 Internet Crime Complaint Centre
United Kingdom - Action Fraud Police
France - Ministère de l'Intérieur
Italy - Polizia Di Stato
Spain - Policía Nacional
Netherlands - Politie
Poland - Policja
Portugal - Polícia Judiciária
Greece - Cyber Crime Unit (Hellenic Police)
India - Mumbai Police - CyberCrime Investigation Cell
Australia - Australian High Tech Crime Center
Reports may be responded to in different timeframes, depending on your local authorities.
Can You Stop Ransomware from Encrypting Your Files?
Yes, you can prevent ransomware. The best way to do this is to ensure your computer system is updated with the latest security patches, use a reputable anti-malware program and firewall, backup your important files frequently, and avoid clicking on malicious links or downloading unknown files.
Can .blend Phobos virus Ransomware Steal Your Data?
Yes, in most cases ransomware will steal your information. It is a form of malware that steals data from a user's computer, encrypts it, and then demands a ransom in order to decrypt it.
In many cases, the malware authors or attackers will threaten to delete the data or publish it online unless the ransom is paid.
Can Ransomware Infect WiFi?
Yes, ransomware can infect WiFi networks, as malicious actors can use it to gain control of the network, steal confidential data, and lock out users. If a ransomware attack is successful, it could lead to a loss of service and/or data, and in some cases, financial losses.
Should I Pay Ransomware?
No, you should not pay ransomware extortionists. Paying them only encourages criminals and does not guarantee that the files or data will be restored. The better approach is to have a secure backup of important data and be vigilant about security in the first place.
What Happens If I Don't Pay Ransom?
If you don't pay the ransom, the hackers may still have access to your computer, data, or files and may continue to threaten to expose or delete them, or even use them to commit cybercrimes. In some cases, they may even continue to demand additional ransom payments.
Can a Ransomware Attack Be Detected?
Yes, ransomware can be detected. Anti-malware software and other advanced security tools can detect ransomware and alert the user when it is present on a machine.
It is important to stay up-to-date on the latest security measures and to keep security software updated to ensure ransomware can be detected and prevented.
Do Ransomware Criminals Get Caught?
Yes, ransomware criminals do get caught. Law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, Interpol and others have been successful in tracking down and prosecuting ransomware criminals in the US and other countries. As ransomware threats continue to increase, so does the enforcement activity.
About the .blend Phobos virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .blend Phobos virus how-to removal guide included, is the outcome of extensive research, hard work and our team’s devotion to help you remove the specific malware and restore your encrypted files.
How did we conduct the research on this ransomware?
Our research is based on an independent investigation. We are in contact with independent security researchers, and as such, we receive daily updates on the latest malware and ransomware definitions.
Furthermore, the research behind the .blend Phobos virus ransomware threat is backed with VirusTotal and the NoMoreRansom project.
To better understand the ransomware threat, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.
As a site that has been dedicated to providing free removal instructions for ransomware and malware since 2014, SensorsTechForum’s recommendation is to only pay attention to trustworthy sources.
How to recognize trustworthy sources:
- Always check "About Us" web page.
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